Level crossing misuse

We take crime at level crossings and level crossing misuse very
seriously. Those who behave irresponsibly put lives at risk.

We are working closely with Network Rail to ensure drivers and
pedestrians use level crossings properly.

Rail passengers’ lives are put at risk when an obstacle is put
in path of a train. Delays while the scene is cleared can be
lengthy, and the cost of repairing crossings and equipment after an
incident can be huge.

What we are doing about it

Education is at the heart of our strategy of tackling level
crossing misuse. We work with Network Rail and Track Off, Britain's
rail industry initiative, to educate children and teenagers on
safety and the use of level crossings.

We have a range of measures in place to deter people from
misusing level crossings, and regularly hold awareness days in
partnership with Network Rail. Our officers hand out safety
leaflets and speak to drivers and pedestrians, highlighting the
dangers that level crossings can pose.

We work in partnership with Network Rail, the office of Rail
Regulation, the Ministry of Justice, Department for Transport, the
Association of Chief Police Officers, Home Office, train operating
companies and the Rail Safety Standards Board, to improve
education, reduce delays and gather intelligence about those
suspected of crossing misuse.

We are in the process of rolling out a fleet of Mobile
Enforcement Vans. These state-of-the-art camera vans are funded by
Network Rail, and are used by our officers to catch offenders by
using the latest video recording and licence plate recognition
technology. The aim is that the presence of the vans, which are
clearly marked, will discourage people from misusing level
crossings in the first place.

Pedestrians face a fine of up to £1000 and a criminal record if
they are caught misusing a level crossing.

Motor vehicle drivers can be charged with a number of driving
offences, including: